A nationwide ban on catching Jatka — young hilsa fish under 25 centimeters — came into effect today, aiming to increase hilsa production and ensure sustainable conservation of Bangladesh’s national fish.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, the restriction will remain in force until June 30, 2026. During this period, catching, transporting, marketing, buying, selling, or storing of Jatka has been strictly prohibited.
The ban is being implemented by the Department of Fisheries under the ministry’s supervision. Officials said the move follows the recent “Hilsa Conservation Campaign 2025”, conducted from October 4 to October 25, to protect brood hilsa during their peak breeding season.
The ministry added that the fry hatched from those brood hilsa are now growing in coastal rivers and estuaries, and ensuring their safe development could significantly increase hilsa yields in the coming years.
Under the Fish Conservation and Protection (Amended) Ordinance, 2025 and the Fish Conservation and Protection Rules, 1985, violation of the ban is punishable by up to two years’ rigorous imprisonment, a fine of up to Tk 5 lakh, or both.
To ensure strict enforcement, the Department of Fisheries is working in coordination with district and upazila administrations, the Bangladesh Navy, Coast Guard, River Police, RAB, and other local law enforcement agencies across the country.
